George P. Fox of West Roxbury, passed away peacefully in his home on May 4, 2014 surrounded by his loving family. He was 76 years old.
George spent almost his whole life, in the same house, as resident of West Roxbury. He went to Roslindale High School, where he was a proud graduate of the Class of 1955. From there, George joined the Coast Guard and was stationed at Point Judith in Rhode Island. He was a proud USCG Veteran of the Korean War. George and Joan married in 1959 and had four fabulous daughters.
Music was a big part of George’s life. George and Joan met and sang together in the Holy Name Glee Club and George played drums in the School Boys Marching Band. They were also known for their moves on the dance floor. In later years, there was often music playing in the background; everything from Jazz and Ragtime to Classical and Doo Wop. He passed his love of music on to his girls.
George made plumbing his career, eventually earning a spot at Northeastern University. By the time he retired from NU, he was the Head of the Plumbing Department. He was affectionately known as “Foxy” by his peers, but preferred to call himself “the Prince of Porcelain”.
George loved to travel, especially sailing on the tall ships known as Windjammers. His travels took him to many islands throughout the Caribbean. He loved the wheel in his hand, and the wind in face. Other traveling adventures took him to Alaska, Arizona, New Mexico and Washington state. Summer vacations entailed camping adventures in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. He settled himself at his summer “estate” in Terrace Pines Campground for 45 years.
George’s true passion was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. George was known as “Papa” to his grandchildren and his great-grandchildren. He was a total marshmallow when a young one was around. He could be a real scary disciplinarian, and he could be a real joker. His sense of humor will be missed by those who knew and loved him.
George was the dear and devoted husband for 54 years of Joan (Cameron). Loving father of Melissa Fox Lincoln and her husband Robert of Fairhaven, Katrina Barry and her husband James of Medford, Deidre Fox of West Roxbury and Gretchen Fox of West Roxbury. Cherished “Papa” of Jayme and Gabrielle Heon, Victoria Barry, James Barry Jr. and Rachel Lincoln. Great grandfather of Faith, Kirsten, Noah and Nikolina. Dear brother of Ronald J Fox of Kingston and Cynthia A. Serota of Arizona. Dear nephew of Ruth Kelsch of Wellesley. Best friend and neighbor for over 50 years of Al Follen. He is also survived by several loving nieces and nephews.
George's Funeral Mass was celebrated May 8, 2014 at Holy Name Church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in George’s memory may be made to Care Dimensions Hospice 75 Sylvan St. Suite B-102 Danvers, MA 01923 or to the Holy Name Youth Service Project 1689 Centre St. West Roxbury, MA 02132.
A private interment will be held a later date.